On Monday, 20 January 2014, time ran out for GUPC's demand that they receive an additional $1.6 billion from the Panama Canal Authority to cover alleged cost overruns. GUPC had threatened a total work stoppage on construction of the third set of locks if, by that date, an agreement was not reached regarding payment.

The Panama Canal Authority has refused both the additional sum and any negotiations outside the terms of the original contract signed with GUPC. The Canal Authority also published a message on its website Mi Canal[3] [en] in which it clarified that the threat by GUPC is not valid and goes against what is set out in the contract.

The unease and lack of transparency on the part of the consortium has upset Panamanians, who consider the Canal part of their national heritage. A group has even organized a protest for Wednesday, February 22.

Why don't they kick out those shameless Spaniards and not let them back in

As long as GUPC's ultimatum hangs overhead, work can be suspended at any time. And although January 20 did not see a complete shutdown, construction is so slow that nobody is discounting the possibility that the Panama Canal Authority will end up taking action on the matter.

[4] that the Canal Authority firmly rejected, insisting the parties respect the provisions of the contract. : http://www.panamaamerica.com.pa/notas/1693497-acp-rechaza-oferta-y-acusa-gupc-violar-el-contrato-

[5] GUPC has said it will not suspend work as of January 20,: http://www.prensa.com/impreso/panorama/gupc-juega-fecha-ultimatum/262790